Sonic 4 Episode 2 | Does It Still Suck 10 Years Later?

[@DesignDoc]

Not a high bar to pass but Episode 2 is better than 1 and it was probably one of the better uses of Metal Sonic with at least 1 decent boss fight. I kinda like White Park and Sky Fortress as stages but yeah this game is just there. I like having team moves with tails but Advance 3 does this way better and him not being playable normally is...dumb.

[@DemonDethchase]

I know right, and given he's locked behind Player 2, does it really count as a playable appearance? Because it should not be this difficult to play as Tails, when other games like Sonic 2, 3 and the Advance games never had have any impossible hoops to jump through.

[@memoryman3586]

I think Episode 2 is worse than 1. 1 has stronger, more inspired level themes with better realised stage gimmicks and didn’t constantly break up the pace with forced Tails moves. The “improved” physics did nothing but to make the pacing feel slower, since most levels don’t take them into account. I enjoy going through Episode 1 and get bored with 2 quickly.

[@DesignDoc]

@@memoryman3586 None of the Zones in either episode are amazing and I can understand preferring the stage design of Ep 1 but i'm not really sure how its stages are more "inspired" than Ep 2? White Park is probably the only stage that actually is unique in S4, Sylvania Castle at least combines two different zones (Aquatic Ruin and Marble Garden) for a slightly unique feel, Oil Desert takes a noticeably different angle on Oil Ocean's theme. Though Sky Fortress is just a somewhat more interesting Wing Fortress, not really inspired there. However the only stage in Ep 1 that feels inspired at all is Lost Labyrinth whose theming feels more fleshed out than its Sonic 1 counterpart. The other zones just feel like quick repeats of their respective themes, maybe with some added flair here and there.

[@memoryman3586]

@@DesignDoc Inspired as in the level gimmicks are more memorable, and the aesthetics are more vibrant. In Episode 1 you were speeding through a road of cards, using the Homing Attack to swing on vines at high speed, lighting up caves, launching off firework cannons and more. It was at least exciting to watch. Episode 2’s gimmicks are less inspired and predictable, thanks to too many Tails sections. Shifting sands are totally a thing we’ve never seen before (not). The rollercoaster level has barely any player input. and there’s more use of drab colors throughout the levels to add to the tedium. Episode 1 was flawed but fun, Episode 2 was boring and slow.

[@DesignDoc]

@@memoryman3586 ok I don’t think I agree, I believe I just fell on the other side of the fence but I think I understand your point of view here. Thanks for clarifying it!

[@MattCrossMedia]

It's a shame the gameplay is so forgettable cause there's some pretty neat and at times gorgeous looking level themes here. Nighttime castlegrounds, winter amusement parks, sky fortresses by the sunset - it'd be nice to have these kinda settings revisited someday.

[@CrossOutBryce]

They do revisit and canonize some of the levels here in the comics, which is nice. (Also getting a kick out of your username bc mine is normally CrossOutMedia 😂)

[@jgoofy8233]

@@CrossOutBryce yeah but unfortunately Sonix 06 is also canon

[@speedthehedgehog4967]

I might remaster this game and make it actually good sometime ;)

[@Pyro03333]

@@speedthehedgehog4967 If you do, don't make it exactly like the classics. Maybe keep a few defining features like the air dash, more speed based gameplay and the more electric music. Obviously you should change some things like the physics and having 2 acts instead of 3, but it would be nice if it can appeal to fans of the classics and the existing sonic 4 duology.

[@BttlBlastR]

Also as a note: tails’ air flying combo does have an unlimited time, but you can only use the jump button 7 times before he tires out

[@blur7491]

This game actually got me to be a Sonic fan and made me meet some people that would change my life forever, and for that reason, this game is always is a special part of any Sonic Marathon I do.

[@nicknight1728]

Bro you're not old, you're just starting. I turned 30 yesterday & I feel much older in comparison, doesn't help I have little bit of gray hair on the sides. Anyway great job with the video.

[@HordikaNate3821]

I was just thinking about how I'm going to college soon, and now I feel really young.

[@fredmeyer1044]

tbh when the decade you grew up in (the 2000's) is still considered "modern" when it started 22 years ago and ended 12 years ago then you definitely start to feel old when you aren't, huge thing with people in their early 20's and the ridiculous divide of the 90's being ancient and the 2000's being brand new is definitely to blame about zoomers being like this while millennials never were. your whole concept of time just gets wacked up.

[@amandadraws8682]

@@fredmeyer1044 its painfully obvious that J's Reviews is a younger guy covering retro content. For years when I watch his content I get the thought, "no you did not grow up with that." It seems more like he is trying to fit in with a certain group instead of just being

[@fredmeyer1044]

@@amandadraws8682 he was born in '99 or 2000, it's definitely believable that he grew up with what he said he does, you people born before the late 90's don't know that us 2000's kids grew up with must of the same stuff and just like to claim shit as yours for some reason

[@retroreina400]

@@amandadraws8682 I mean, I was born in 2001, but the only consoles I owned for awhile, was an NES and an SNES inherited from my dad until I eventually got a PS2, so yeah, I certainly did grow up with games from the 80s and 90s despite never living in those times. I see no reason to believe why J couldn’t have either, especially when he’s older than me.

[@rollbustah]

Episode 2 might be mediocre, but that Metal Sonic theme is fire.

[@bendyboy7179]

Agreed

[@nemesis021]

Literally the only shit people talk about defending this game “Yeah this game is garbage, so garbage even sega is giving it away for free on your phone but atleast the metal sonic theme is fire!!!!”

[@Starry_Horizons]

M- mediocre?

[@Raymi20-]

How dare you!

[@m1tch506]

Sky fortress act 2 and 3 also sound fire

[@ameerashourdraws]

I also feel old, too. Sonic 4 is personally a guilty pleasure of mine, while I know that those two games pale in comparison to the other good 2D Sonic games (Genesis, GBA, DS, Mania, etc.), I still get a kick from them every time. I would say that Episode 2 is a much better game compared to Episode 1, but not what I consider a *great* game. It is what it is, a solid game, and I personally also agree with your points as well

[@thefastcommenter7774]

Ep 1 is what I consider a great game.

[@justanormalguy3595]

@@thefastcommenter7774 EP1 is Trash

[@thecommenterdude3995]

@@justanormalguy3595 I liked Episode 2 better than episode one though. Multiplayer is what makes it the better game.

[@Keruniii]

I feel like if they just named this sonic mobile or something this game would have been received so much better

[@MugiMikey]

Gonna be honest, I thought this game was just incredibly underwhelming upon release. I thought the physics were largely the same as the first one, there are more recycled tropes, I hated that the visuals were different, and they couldn't fully commit to Tails being playable. This game being mediocre is actually a bad thing at the end of the day because it couldn't afford to be mediocre. It's just bad. Gonna actually say I had more fun with Episode 1 than I did this game. What a let-down. I know some people like Sonic 4 and even if I can't relate, that's fine. At least this one was able to do something for you.

[@legacytv2453]

I was filled with rage after watching the first Sonic 4 trailer. It looked bad. Upon playing the game I was so angry, that I almost boycotted Sega. I did boycott Sega after Episode 2 was an even worse game

[@ultrasphoenix]

Ayyy Mugi the chad

[@KrispyBroccoli]

Personally, I think Episode 2 was wayyy better. But thats just me

[@STICKOMEDIA]

Yooo Mikey long time no see

[@sebastianmartinez5963]

@Games Hey! don't underestimate Sonic Advance games. They may not be worthy successors to the classics, but they are very good 2D Sonic games.

[@enderaceofspades8579]

It's really been 10 years since Sonic 4? Damn, I feel old.

[@angusyoung119]

When it comes to video games, being 21 actually is the beginning of "The old generation". Being in my late 20s, it was mind blowing to look at something like the Wii as something unnecessarily new, only for it to be one of the most famous products in the world. I can remember when video games had NO internet implementation, and just saying those words means I'm part of "the ancient times".

[@kingbash6466]

I still hold the opinion that Sonic 4 EP 2 is somewhat underrated. Yeah, the stage design isn’t the best, and the music has it’s misses, but I will forever love the aesthetics. It’s such a step up from EP 1, and in stages like Sylvania Castle and Sky Fortress, the backgrounds are gorgeous. Also the despite how repetitive it is, I like how aggressive the Eggman boss theme is here than in the last game.

[@jacariwatsonallard8603]

oddly, I actually enjoy both episodes even though I'm well aware how mediocre/bad they both are

[@keybladeoverlord]

I still very much enjoy both episodes of Sonic 4. Yeah they aren't as good as the Genesis games or Mania, but they work perfectly as "relaxation" games for me, when I wanna play a game that's not too challenging and can be over and done with real quickly

[@theminecraft2516]

4 real 4 real. If these were marketed as portable games and not Sonic 4 they would be much more respected.

[@MagillanicaLouM]

@@theminecraft2516 pretty much, the only real major huge flaw of these games is simply the title itself. Every main issue that people have with them mostly stem from the expectations that come with that number 4. Which yeah, they absolutely don't deserve that sequel status, but if they were just a new 2d branch like Advance or Rush they'd probably be looked at relatively much more fondly, if not mentioned as much due to the lack of controversy.

[@daviddamasceno6063]

You're telling me this is a different game? And it is... good?! Daaamn, I bought both episodes years ago and never touched Episode 2 cause Episode 1 turned me off completely. Gotta try that one now!

[@piranhalettuce]

@Games I wouldn't say bad just mid, it just kind of exists.

[@shocker1410]

@@piranhalettuce Which honestly is worse, tbh.

[@JustDarkFire]

I think it’s just high enough above mid to be worth it. If you’ve got a friend with you it’s definitely a better experience.

[@segaspice4062]

I liked it

[@MarioMastr]

you see, thats the problem

[@HordikaNate3821]

I know splitting the games up was to advertise they sorta had lock on technology like 3k, but they didn't really make use of that, still better than the first episode Edit: also for the mobile versions of this game episode metal has so many graphical glitches, the 3rd level looks like something from a shitty creepypasta LMAO

[@Geobot3000]

It's a lot better than episode 1 but that's like saying forces is better than boom so it's a good game.

[@robiginal]

I kinda wish that Sonic 4 Episode III didn't get cancelled, because if Episode II was just a little better than the original it makes me wonder how Episode III would have improved

[@yayo_youtube]

Hot take: I actually like Sonic 4 episode 2, but it still has flaws, like not having Tails playable normally, so he's locked to Multi-player, being short, not as good as the Genesis game or CD, but still a experience I enjoy from time to time, way better than Sonic 4, and some years ago, I even considered this better than Sonic 3, but that did change after I got Sonic Mega Collection on new year.

[@Unremarkable6969]

Dimps made the Advanced Trilogy and the Rush duology in the course of six years, twice the amount of time in-between Sonic 4 part 1 and Lost World DS.

[@JasLamArr91]

It kinda makes me wonder what Episode 3 would've been like.

[@shocktrauma85]

Sonic 4 & Knuckles, but Knuckles somehow plays worse. Probably can't glide as far.

[@TyvenPayne-sv6gw]

If a episode 3 were to happen, they will have a half-ass knuckles with stages based on the 8bit sonic games or adventure 1 and 2.

[@ownsundae]

7:38 you don't need to destroy the generators and make good futures if you collect the time stones

[@yth592]

Was watching your episode 1 video, so the fact this just came out is honestly astronomical

[@HybridAngelZero]

While I certainly won't argue with anything you brought up in this video, I still quite enjoy Sonic 4 Ep 2, and even go back to it every once in a while. The combo moves are fun to play around with, I quite enjoy the boss fights (the final one with the huge layered ring sticks in my head as especially cool) and unlike Ep1, I still feel like it has its own identity

[@stefangaming2833]

this game has a soft spot in my heart because i played the mobile port when i was little

[@rhapsody2612]

Sonic 4 Episode 2 is 10 years old!? Man, I feel SO old, this was my first sonic game. I played this when it first came out when I was 4 on my iPad 1st Gen, now i'm 14, 10 years go by FAST

[@cloudshines812]

I feel its been said multiple times, but Episode 2 feels like a bandage slapped on Episode 1. The physics and visuals are “slightly” better, and the inclusion of Tails and team attack combos do make the game a little unique… but much like its predecssor, Episode 2 feels empty. Stages were still recycled from nostalgia and previous designed zones, music is quite unappealing with only a couple fine tunes… and the game ends in a way which feels like lifeless… kinda like this entire series. Its a wonder why we never got an Episode 3 which might’ve just included Knuckles and rehash the story of Sonic 3… but Sonic The Hedgehog 4 is more than forgotten. It feels like nothing… and it is nothing. If this game would’ve just been combined together and slightly improved a bit, at best… Sonic 4 would be considered “okay” but even Sega has moved far past this disaster as it isn’t even mentioned in Sonic Mania or any other lineup of Sonic games. I can’t say Sonic 4 is the worst, but I can definatly say its the most lifeless Sonic game made to date. Also the Episode Metal DLC couldn’t have saved this garbage much like the Episode Shadow DLC from Sonic Forces. But I am looking forward to the Sonic Free Riders video J! One of the worst games I played in the lineup even never played Sonic Riders or ZG.

[@JdRDMS]

9:19 Sounds like you speak from experience.

[@theonlybilge]

9:04 unfortunate that Tails developed a degenerative muscle disease.

[@Mike-sp7zv]

I was so excited to play both episodes when I couldn't play it either (0:30) but I didn't even have a smart phone. My hype grew when metal sonic was revealed, and I'm currently playing it not because I love the game, but because steam didn't save my playthroughs and now I have to unlock episode metal again

[@devinwilliams4527]

Wow, it's been ten years since episode two came out?! Goodness, the years go by fast. I don't think this game, heck Sonic 4 in general, is as bad as some people make it out to be despite understanding the criticisms for both games (misleading title, bland level design, uninspired levels, average music, which is an absolute sin for a Sonic game, no other playable characters aside from Sonic, etc.). Still, I enjoy Sonic 4 as a throwback game that is its own thing, just like the Advance and Rush games, not a sequel (because the game isn't one in the slightest bit). Both episodes could be better, but they're not terrible games; they're decent for what they are. I'd rather play both episodes of Sonic 4 than the bad games from the dark age era.

[@sebastianmartinez5963]

Hell, it's true. They're not great, but they're decent for what they are. I really enjoyed Episode 2, and although people complain that Tails is not a playable character, at least Tails is very useful in the game, because thanks to him you can overcome obstacles that prevent you from advancing in the levels.

[@devinwilliams4527]

@@sebastianmartinez5963, I like how they brought back the tag actions from Advance 3, as it has tons of potential, and they should get it back for future 2D Sonic games. I also agree that Tails was extremely useful in episode two as well. Sonic four also reminds me of New Super Mario Bros because that series shares similar problems with Sonic 4.

[@sonickreekgamer7625]

Funnily enough, Sonic 4 Episode 2 is one of the first Sonic games I ever played along with the Sonic CD remaster and Sonic Dash!

[@juannaym8488]

tbh I am kinda vibing with the colors of some stages in this game. I won't lie, it's kinda nice to look at in some contexts

[@sebastianmartinez5963]

Sonic 4 episode 2 is a good game that fixes many of episode 1's shortcomings, but fails to live up to the classics. Also, I like the soundtrack of episode 2, I mean, I'm still listening to the theme of Death Egg mkII act 1

[@Darkfawfulx]

Sky Fortress Act 2&3 are good. Too short but still great tunes.

[@vreikezen8268]

If only they didn't force Jun to make mega drive-style music on non-megadrive hardware, seriously guys.

[@xgaming2427]

In my opinion Sonic 4 episode 2 is a fine enough game it's definitely better than episode 1.

[@kieranstark7213]

Honestly, Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is a Modern (or Early Meta Era) Sonic game (or duology) that tried way too hard to be a Classic Sonic game(s) to the point of embarassing failure, especially the first episode since (at least graphics-wise) Episode 2 was a teensy bit of an improvement.

[@criticalbuddy524]

I know that my comment has nothing to see with Sonic 4 but dude, your content is simply very entertaining. The editing, your direct way of speaking, the well-structured script, your videos feel so natural, I love all of that and I spend a good time in the afternoons. Keep up that great work.

[@apollorock3r244]

9:21 Thanks to him and Somecallmejohnny, that ability will forever be called the 69 formation. XD I lost it at the “Don’t Google it” line. XD

[@mechajay3358]

Episode 2 is an improvement on the first Sonic 4 game, but not by much. It's still a subpar game that's not wort being seen as a continuation of the Mainline Gensis Games.

[@ProtectorOfMemes]

Episode 2 was always a game I was curious about but simply never got around to until I decided to download it when it was made available for free on phones, and tbh, especially after having played every other 2D Sonic game that wasn't Pocket Adventure or Shattered Crystal, it truly was nothing special. Wouldn't be surprised if they made an official Sonic timeline and deliberately left these two games (plus Episode Metal) out of the picture.

[@HordikaNate3821]

I think with Mania existing, they already have erased these games from memory

[@cakelayer]

@@HordikaNate3821 no they didn't, idiot "fans" just decided that because oh, I don't know, sonic 4 is a modern sonic game and because it isn't on the elevator, OMG GUYS MANIA REAL SONIC 4!!1!

[@StrikerSML]

I had the snow level music in my head the other day because my friend had it on his phone and he died over and over and I hward that song nonstop and it just came back to me. Maybe it's associated with watching your sonic 4 ep 1 video recently too but not sure.

[@Caaaacaaaaa]

This game is a real step up from... That. We don't talk about. THAT... Anyways this game is much better than the LAST one. Tbh the music SLAPS way to hard than it should, The backgrounds are beautiful and interesting, and it plays much better (THANK GOD). Overall Sonic 4 episode 2 is ok.

[@deepad8089]

I always thought Episode 2 looked like an improvement from Episode 1 by a visual and maybe even gameplay standpoint, I even kinda wanted Episode 3 with playable Knuckles just to see how far they’ve come but we got Mania so it’s best to leave Sonic 4 in the dust for good. Anyway, great input as always J! I can’t wait for your Free Riders review and see you trash Lost World and Forces in due time afterwards.

[@ethejumper6568]

Or lets just say that Sonic Mania was Sonic 4 Episode 3 all along

[@piranhalettuce]

@@ethejumper6568 Or maybe the real Sonic 4 Episode 3 was the friends we made along the way.

[@tanooki116]

This... was my favourite Sonic game for a good while. I think this review finally made me realise that it probably shouldn't be. When I play it, I appreciate the fact that they looked at how awful Episode 1 was and decided to actually try to improve it. I like Tails as a combo-move character. I like the visuals. I like that they tried to be a little more unique. The music, while similar, feels like it has a little bit more of its own identity compared to Episode 1. I appreciate the fact that it felt like one of those "pick up and go" games, especially on mobile. But that's just it - it's like a mobile game. This is supposed to be _Sonic 4._ It feels like it gets close to feeling like that sometimes... but it always falls short. This review finally cleared the reason why: It's because it's Episode 2 of something no one wanted. It had to stay similar enough for it to feel like an Episode 2. Which sucks, because now... All I can think of when I see this game is how cool it _could've been._ It feels like the devs really wanted to give HD 2D Sonic a real try, but Episode 1 (along with time constraints) really shot that down. It's a shame. Hmm... I wonder if anyone's been modding Episode 2 much. I feel like I could take its framework and turn it into something fun. Not a "Real Sonic 4" or anything - but a ROM hack, featuring different levels, snappier combo moves, and maybe even different characters. Does anyone know where I might be able to get assistance for that sort of thing?

[@blur7491]

To answer your question at the end, your best bet is to contact Dario, he is the only one to have made significant in Sonic 4 EP2 modding by adding Classic Sonic and Tails and he also is known for being the lead for stuff like the Unleashed Project and the only Gens mod loader. Just ask him a proper formatted question and perhaps do some research on some modding to format your questions better

[@blur7491]

Also, stuff like new gimmicks and fixes to the Tag System would need something called custom code injection...this is a level of modding that took Gens like 9 years so I would hold off from that rn

[@tanooki116]

@@blur7491 That's true... thanks for the reply.

[@cliffturbo2146]

15:08 You are one, brave soldier for playing this game.

[@cinnamon6452]

The timing on this video is perfect as I deadass just finished watching your video on Sonic 4 Episode 1

[@MarzOnline92]

Sonic 4 should get a full blown complete remake (not to be confused with a remaster). Sonic 4 should resemble Sonic Generations' classic gameplay while adapting Ian Flynn's Sonic: Mega Drive comic for the story (sense he never got to finish it). If you read it, you know what I'm talking about.

[@johnman8398]

I think episode II is a good game that improved heavily on the first with the improved visuals, great ost and improved gameplay. The multiplayer is fine if you just don't go online and play locally (which I did because it was obvious online multiplayer in a 2d sonic game is just asking for trouble). Also I don't think the end boss of the first zone is trying to be self-aware and is just a normal bait and switch for sonic fans who played sonic 2.

[@gabrieldevoogel6225]

I remember this being the second game I ever got super sonic in, my phone broke a month later and I lost it but I still remember it today, I honestly really love 4 episode II, and wish it was a better overall product so I could recommend it easier then “it bridges one gap you need to know about”

[@sthG3rson]

When I turn 22, my favorite Sonic game (and favorite game of all time for now) Will be 20 YEARS OLD.

[@odinmandu2184]

I still remember playing the demo of Sonic 4 EP 2 on my mum's phone so much that I could play those levels with my eyes closed Yup, I'm old at 20 😂

[@massiveprogressive9488]

Sylvania Castle is always a zone name that makes me laugh whenever hearing it. Probably a clear indication that they just couldn't be bothered anymore.

[@TyvenPayne-sv6gw]

People always say that episode 2 is ways better than episode 1, but that isn't really saying much to me at least.

[@ChipFanXO]

I actually really love this game

[@haakenbailey7381]

I just rewatched your video on Sonic 4 Episode 1.

[@TheEPICMarioBros2]

am I the only one who wishes Sonic 4 Episode III released? my biggest problem with the Sonic 4 saga is that it has a unsatisfying conclusion, and since we never visit Little Planet again after this aside from the Stardust Speedway and Metallic Madness illusions in Mania, Little Planet was canonically left as the Death Egg mk II, and after Sonic 4 Episode II, Sonic and Tails just kinda decided they were gonna stop caring, and I guess Eggman also stopped caring after Sonic and Tails did

[@Thebluedestroyer02]

I actually never thought it sucked.

[@ggrarl]

If nothing else, Sonic 4 Episode 2 gave us that awesome Metal Sonic boss music. I've heard some excellent remixes of that piece.

[@Madotshadow]

basically what happened to this game is they put a bandaid on sonic 4 episode 1's physics and replaced most of the remake stages with more original ones alongside combo moves to help getting around easily. definitely better than episode 1 but not much else though

[@johnkapon8536]

I would really like a sonic riders trilogy remaster(with free riders having traditional controlls), and a advance trilogy remaster

[@shaankelly1302]

Believe me you are not old. Dont feel that way. I just turned 30 thats when you feel old lol. Also you're only 21?! This is some impressive analysis videos for someone so young. Good job dude! I've enjoyed all your Sonic and RE videos as they are 2 of my top 5 franchises. And while i disagree with the majority of your opinions regarding the "dark age" games i respect you well thought out takes. I do like Sonic 4 ep 1 a bit, more than unleashed/06/storybook games but its not great by any stretch. I feel episode 2 is a huge improvement both visually and level themes. Yea they mixed old themes together and Sky Fortress is Wing Fortress but the level design is much improved from Ep1. That being said, its still boost pad - springs - homing chain - boost -spring - repeat lol. But there are a few good levels in there. Really wish they let you lock on the episodes similar to 3K for ease of play

[@ling8956]

He is not from the 1990s era. He is a wannabe of that era.

[@MB-cb2he]

He likes Sonic 06. He will never be accepted into an oldschool group.

[@calistusjay60]

Sonic 4 episode 2 never sucked. It was always seen as an improvement over the first game, and a pretty decent mobile game!

[@quickup7530]

The Sonic Advance and Sonic Rush games got criticism for failing to live up to the classics by hardcore fans. But Sonic 4 is simply unforgivably bad.

[@gukeoke6312]

Sonic Rush was never meant to live up to the classic games, it plays completely different lol

[@StarWolf5298]

As someone who was 37-38 at the time of this video, J is making me feel goddamned ancient by comparison!

[@satelliteprime]

Ah, Sonic 4 Episode 2. VERY rarely do I feel boredom when watching Sonic gameplay of ANY kind or ANY era, but Sonic 4-2 is one of the worst offenders if not the worst. It's baffling. Even the worse titles can usually be made to look pretty impressive when in the hands of a skilled player, but for all of the improvements it made to its abhorrent predecessor, this game is somehow even more of a sleep aid than Episode 1 is, at least to me, as in Episode 1 I can at least laugh at the absurdity of how bad it is.

[@PurplePikmin383]

The Death Egg Mk 2 is one of the coolest looking stages imo

[@thepurestvessel998]

I agree

[@JNewsted1988]

WOW. I literally JUST watched your video on Sonic 4 Episode 1, like, 2 hours ago! What a coincidence!!!

[@DJ10_]

J if it makes you feel better, I've watched all your Sonic videos and you definitely have the cadence of an old man in a young guy's body, which I can relate to lmao.

[@shadow-scope-fsm7165]

Honestly, this game (and Sonic 4 in general) I feel kinda gets a bum rap. For me, the level design is actually one of the high points, because whilst it does use familiar level themes, it puts in the extra effort to make not only each stage feel unique, but each individual act. White Park may be one of my favourite Sonic stages, as it combines two of my favourite level tropes, and imma just say, Sky Fortress > Wing Fortress any day. It's not much good when compared to Sonic Mania, but I still have decent fun for the hour it takes me to beat each game. Certainly more fun than something like 8-Bit Sonic 2 anyways.

[@waypastcoolkid]

To be fair to Sonic 4’s legacy….Splash Hill Zone is referenced in Sonic Movie 2 on a water truck that is later busted through by Knuckles…maybe he’s still bitter about there not being an episode 3…oh well, there’s always Sonic 5

[@DonniedrakoE]

Literally just watched your review on the first game. Which is funny because the is the only one of The two apps I got.

[@Sly88Frye]

Even though I'm turning 34 next month I still know I'm pretty young. There are times where I do start to feel like I'm old though with all the stuff I grew up with being so ancient and even the stuff that I liked as a much younger adult being more than a decade old now

[@StarTheProtag]

Personally, I think Sonic 4: Episode 2 should've been Sonic 4 by itself without Episode 1. I've played the Classic Sonic games & I can't really see myself revisiting any of them except for Sonic Spinball & Sonic The Fighters. They're not bad, but I just don't like them that much. Not even Sonic Mania. I've never played any of the Advance games or Rush games, so I can't really say anything about those. But Sonic Colors DS is a good game on the DS. I don't see myself going back to it, but it's solid. Sonic 4: Episode 1 has some good stages & a good soundtrack, but the gameplay, physics, & momentum were mediocre. The Special Stages sucks & the graphics are subpar. To me, Sonic 4: Episode 2 is the best 2D Sonic game so far. Despite the small amount of stages, the gameplay, physics, & momentum are something I can easily get use to. The soundtrack is good for the most part. The graphics look nice. And the Special Stages has a right amount of fun & challenge. If Episode 1 had just stayed as a portable with Episode 2 being the real Sonic 4 with more stages, then I'd enjoy the game even more than I do now. Still, as it is, Episode 2's the only 2D Sonic game I can go back to.

[@ashleymessner4649]

Sonic 4 episode 2 was the first sonic game I ever played and i wouldn't know my live without sonic 4 episode 2 or this discovery.

[@Chibi_Mercury]

sonic 3 and knuckles had to be released separately because of space, not marketing reasons. they didnt have enough space on the Genesis to release them as one

[@lpfan4491]

it was actually both. We know that it would have been possible to figure out a data-layout that fits into one rom, because Complete actually did just that. But there was no reason to do so, because they had to split it for the marketing anyways.

[@RealHyperHedgehog]

This game is just ok. Not good or bad.

[@bebopknux5857]

It's okay to feel old, and if it makes you feel any better I'm about to be 21 on June 5th but idc because we live in the era where we'll be able to talk about all sonic games and discuss with one and another without feeling like someone is missing the picture. Oh yeah, Sonic episode 2... It's a fine mobile game, I only played it at phone buying places when I was younger lmao but as you said, It's hampered by it's tie to sonic episode 1. Just like how I dislike mania for being held back by retracing stage themes (even if they did there hardest to explore different things inside said themes) Sonic 4 episode 2 is just a piece of media nobody will miss or care (Cept the low-key people who like this game) The saddest part is they didn't even realize why the games failed/were mid they just thought putting money into a project memeing on sonic 3 was why people disliked it (besides the physics) when in reality it's the fact they were so proud to boast about sonic only being playable and "going back to it's roots".

[@TKFTGuillotine]

Somebody has probably already said it but since I'm not seeing it, Tails doesn't actually have a short time limit on his flight. In fact, there's no time limit at all. Instead, he gets seven A presses before tiring out.

[@austinreed7343]

The Little Planet cliffhanger gets sorta resolved in Sonic Forces.

[@AlmarAZL9S]

I don't hate Sonic 4 1&2 and saying it doesn't exist like some of the other Sonic fans do. There are some things I do like about it...mainly the music but at the time of its reveal I was happy that Sonic was getting a 2D game. - I usually prefer the 2D games over the 3D ones because you have to be fast to react to sections and I'm anything but that starting up. Also I grew up with the 2D games with my first one being Sonic 2. I do agree with what you said. There were even things I didn't know until watching your video. Enjoyed watching your Distinction playlist so far (you didn't do Sonic Chronicles but you listed why on Sonic Rivals Duo video and I understood that. It's funny that Ryrule is in this playlist for that game. Must be someone you trust and liked to be on this playlist. Solid review from him). In any case Sonic 4 E2 is better than S4 E1. It's a shame they didn't think to use Sonic Advance 3 playstyle for multiplayer where each player has their own screen on co-op multiplayer and not sharing the screen. I don't understand why Sonic and Tails had to share the same screen. That wasn't gonna work at all and would slow or mess up the player you teamed up with.

[@masteryoraerasante]

I think that, considering how 4-1 is just an "upgrade" to 1 and 4-2 just added elements of cd, which both lacks tails and was supposed to be 2... This sounds to me like the 4 saga was supposed to be an interquel between 1 and 2 (because sonic and tails lost the combo skills but got better at teamwork) and cd was either before 4-1 or between 4-1 and 4-2... ... Ok, I am probably wrong, but I am trying to find something worthwhile in the sonic 4 saga it matters

[@lpfan4491]

No, it's after 3.

[@masteryoraerasante]

@@lpfan4491 but why do you think so? Besides the number, I mean. Devil May Cry 3, released long before this game, was also the first game in its timeline. As mentioned, everything in Episode 1 is a rehash of Sonic 1, and the only thing in this game that points to it being later is the arrival of Tails, who first appears in 2 but met sonic before it, and Metal Sonic SonicCD version, which was supposed to be an alternate 2 so also before 3, and does not have Tails so probably even before 2.

[@lpfan4491]

@@masteryoraerasante It's been stated that it is after 3, that's just all. It also sorta seems logical because if it happens after 2, then it should also happen after 3. Since 3 is shortly after 2 and Sonic even carries over the chaos emeralds from that game(Guess what he doesn't have in Sonic 4).

[@joshmcgootermier2301]

Just thought this.., if they knew it wasnt worth a physical release didnt they know it wasnt worthy of being a numbered entry

[@dragondelsur5156]

Sonic 4 was bad from the concept itself, which is a cheap throwback duology that prides itself on what it doesn't have rather than what it has. Even if episode 2 was sucessful, what would we have? Knuckles as an NPC? S3&K tropes? More "in your face" self awareness? These games just love to blindly suck it to the Genesis games and does it in the most souless way possible.

[@theminecraft2516]

The music in this game is underrated

[@dearickangelonej.legaspi6686]

1 minute in and you made ME feel old! -someone who is literally only a few years apart from you

[@otaking3582]

I only ever touched the mobile port of this game. I just assumed that the weird physics and underwhelming level design were due to being on an iPad, but no, it was like that on all platforms.

[@K4TASTR0PHY]

i love ur reviews so much 😭

[@Dreamprism]

In this video: a guy a decade younger than me laments being old, thus making me feel even older

[@premierballreal]

The metal thing explains itself since the capturing of the planet has started for death egg

[@ChristochatBTW]

Don't worry dude, I am 18 grew up on the gamecube and watched VHS tapes as well, you aren't old, everyone else is just young

[@TheSqueakerNerd]

Long awaited, Yez 🤣 Enjoyed the video and have a nice day everyone

[@PiousMoltar]

I'm glad I'm not the only one that feels old to hear this is 10 years old now. Wtf. It seems so recent. Then again I'm quite a lot older than you unfortunately. I'm surprised you were watching VHS tapes as a kid, they grew out of fashion when I was still a kid!

[@JS_HP]

YESSIR I FINALLY SEE YOU MAKE A VID OF THIS

[@DarnHooligan]

We had to make presentations on the evolution of video-game franchises in my computing class. Me and another person both did Sonic. I remember him asking, "Is there a Sonic 4 after Sonic 3?" *Sit down son, let me tell you a story*

[@DarnHooligan]

@The lost bits Mania came out in 2017

[@DarnHooligan]

@The lost bits ah

[@awesomeboss2020]

*Reads Title* Everyone: Yes

[@concreteman03]

12:46 one of the designers favoured Kyogre

[@KingK1421]

I honestly did not think you were 21, wow! you sound young

[@OMGg4m3r]

Sonic 4 Episode 2 is actually my favourite 2D sonic game, but then again I generally find 2D sonic kinda boring or frustrating, especially in the way sonic games encourage you to go fast while also punishing you for going too fast by throwing obstacles you can't see in your way.

[@shaankelly1302]

2d sonic is about going slow, memorizing the levels, them having you be able to speed through the levels without stopping as your reward for doing so. And it's exhilarating. Sonic is not about speed speed speed. It's just advertised that way, the 3d games are about this more so but the way 2d sonic games are designed they were never built to be sped through on an initial run

[@the757general2]

Sonic was never solely about going fast. Even Sonic 1 punished players with that mindset in Marble Zone. It's about memorizing the level layout and rewarding players that can keep up momentum. You will likely get hit a lot during your first playthrough, but once you get more familiar with the level layout and all of the multiple routes possible you will get better. Even as a kid I easily mastered the Genesis Sonic games. Sonic has always had a very forgiving health system. As long as you have at least one ring in your collection you will always survive unless you get crushed, drown, or fall in a bottomless pit.

[@OMGg4m3r]

@@the757general2 Maybe thats why I dislike most 2d sonic as I generally hate replaying games. I had a ps1 as a kid with no memory card and had to replay levels over and over so I think I connect replaying games to that horrible experience.

[@tuukkama]

also note: super stars multiplayer also shares the fate where both players share ONE screen.

[@toonlinkunknown7667]

After free riders, I'd like to see your review on Lost World. I played that game so much in my pre-teen era on my 3DS. I'd love to see you tare it apart for fun.

[@buttercupkat]

When you're self-aware that your project is horrible and should be remade, and instead of molding it to be better you poke fun at yourself and proceed to have the same flaws anyway: it's a bug, not a feature no matter how much you want it to be.

[@feywinterfox9630]

This is one Sonic game I never got to play but all I remember about it was everyone saying it sucked but never did say why.